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16 Apr 2011

A Cockermouth man believes he is the oldest candidate standing in this year’s local elections.

Michael Baron, 82, of South Street, is representing the Green Party in the town’s Christ Church ward.

Mr Baron, who has been a member of the Allerdale and Copeland Green party for five years, wants to raise the profile of green and environmental issues.

He said: “We will be looking to promote pro-green issues because we have to look at things like climate change. We have to change our lifestyle.

“We are also the only party opposing the construction of a deep nuclear waste depository in West Cumbria.”

Mr Baron said the party was becoming more prominent in West Cumbria and nationally.

He said: “Our performance in the by-election following the retirement of Les Lytollis in August was respectable.

“I just hope we can clock up some votes and put up a good show.”

The party will field another six candidates in Allerdale at this year’s local elections.

Only two candidates stood for election four years ago, but this year the party equals the number of Liberal Democrats standing.

Jill Perry and Geoff Smith both stood four years ago and they will be standing for the Crummock ward and Ellen Ward respectively.

They are joined by Alistair Grey, who will be contesting Seaton, Felicity Crowley, who will be standing for the Dalton ward, Helen Graham in the Wharrels ward and Maryport’s Dianne Standen in Netherhall ward.

Mr Smith, chairman of the local branch, said: “This time four years ago we were an acorn of a party but we are growing into a significant political force.

“We hope to capitalise on the success of our party leader in getting elected to Parliament and to learn from the success of the Green Party in Germany, who have just taken control of one state and have become the largest opposition party.”